Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office
A University activity to break the sedentary lifestyle.
The ݮƵMedical Services Department (MSD), in its commitment to holistic well-being and sustainable development, held the university-wide “Lakad-Lakad Para sa Kalikasan” at the University Oval last April 8.
Geared towards the entire ݮƵCommunity—especially employees and administrative staff—PUP-MSD promotes walking as a means for exercise that is both accessible and suitable for all age groups.
Walking towards a healthier lifestyle “Walking is not just an exercise. It is a step towards longevity, mental clarity, and a stronger sense of community” was PUP-MSD’s message to the participants, who wore their best exercise attires. This fundamental form of human movement, for guest speaker Dr. Cosette Esmeralda C. Atutubo, Trauma and Orthopedic Surgeon, is important to break a sedentary lifestyle or the lack of significant physical activity.
“People are designed to move,” she said. However, a 2020 World Health Organization (WHO) study found that technological innovations, more stationary jobs, and increased sedentary behavior have contributed to a global decline in physical activity.
As Dr. Atutubo discussed, “We are not meant to stay in just one position. If we hold a certain position for a prolonged period of time, magkakaroon tayo ng muscle spasm (we may experience muscle spasms).”
“Break the sit, break the habit” was the event theme. Movement, health professionals say, is vital to one’s physical and mental health, helping people to thrive in life. The guest speaker emphasized that reducing sedentary behaviors will bring numerous health benefits and that walking—even in short bursts throughout the day—is key. In her advice to the audience, she encouraged “There are a lot of chronic diseases due to prolonged sitting. Let’s mitigate that, let’s try to move.”
Gradually replacing sitting with light to moderate intensity activities, such as walking, has been proven to enhance cognitive performance. It boosts brain health by improving mood, and memory, and helps maintain brain volume. Walking also refines vascular and blood pressure health, decrease the risk of falls, fractures, and osteoporosis, and increases oxygen flow to the brain. Also, regular walking (e.g., 3 hours a week) can lower the risk of death by 35% and add up to three years to one’s life.
The guide for a better life In her closing words, PUP-MSD Director Dr. Ma. Liza T. Yanes stated “Ang mga akitibidad na ito ay magsisilbing gabay para sa ating patuloy na pangangalaga sa ating kalusugan, maging ito man ay pisikal, mental, at emosyonal,” underscoring the importance of this event to help PUPians achieve a healthier way of life.
(These activities will serve as a guide for our continued care for our health—whether it be physical, mental, or emotional.)
She added, “Ang kalusugan ay isang mahalagang yaman na kailangan nating pangalagaan. Huwag nating kalimutan na maglaan ng oras para sa ating sarili at magsanay ng mga positibong habit na magsusustento sa ating kabuuang kalusugan.”
(Health is a valuable treasure that we must take care of. Let us not forget to set aside time for ourselves and practice positive habits that will sustain our overall well-being.)
She further highlighted the occasion’s call for action towards a comprehensive wellness and lasting health improvements, leading to a more content and efficient ݮƵCommunity.
“Magsama-sama po tayo sa pagbuo ng isang mas malusog at mas masayang komunidad dito sa ating Unibersidad.”
(Let us come together in building a healthier and happier community here in our University.)
(Note: Summary of walking benefits, grammar check, and English translation was assisted by AI.)
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